- Owning a bunny requires a 12 year Commitment. A bunny’s lifespan is 7-12 years and requires time out of your day, every day. Choosing to adopt a bunny is not a decision that should be made hastily or taken lightly.
- It is best to get your doe spayed or buck neutered at about 6 months old for several reasons (cost is about $300):
- Hormones can cause undesirable behavior like spraying, urinating and pooing everywhere to mark their territory.
- Bunnies poo… ALOT. You can litter train your bunny but there will still be accidents. Luckily, their little poo balls are easily cleaned up. It is much easier to litter train your bunny after he has been spayed/neutered. Although there will be accidents, the little poo balls are easily cleaned up.
- Spayed/neutered bunnies tend to live longer.
- A spayed/neutered bunny is more mellow and more cuddly.
- You will need a veterinarian who treats rabbits. Find and choose a vet before picking up your bunny so you are prepared. Not all veterinarians specialize in rabbits. An annual health check is recommended. Note: Rabbits do not need vaccinations.
- A bunny is a social animal and thrives on attention! You must spend time with your bunny on a daily basis. A neglected bunny is not a happy bunny.
- You will need to get to know your bunny well. A sick bunny usually hides his illness so it is important to know your bunny and his behavior so you will catch any issue early.
- Bunnies are active and need plenty of exercise. You will need an area for your bunny to hop about and stretch his legs. Bunnies are a curious breed and will escape if given the opportunity so the area needs to be secure.
- A bunnies main diet is hay and pellets. They should also be served small amounts of leafy greens on a daily basis. You can give your bunny specific fresh fruits and vegetables as treats a few times a week.
- Clean water should always be available. Once a day, pour out their old water and give them fresh water. Clean their water bowl at least once a week.
- Holland Lops need to be brushed weekly; more often during molting so they don’t ingest fur.
- Even if your bunny is free roam, he will need somewhere safe to hangout when you are not home. The enclosure should be large enough for a litter box, food and water, and an area for him to rest. His bedding should be cleaned often.
- Bunnies like to chew on just about anything. Unless you want your baseboards, furniture, etc chewed on, you must bunny-proof their area and provide them with lots of chew toys.
- Your bunny’s nails should be trimmed once a month.
- Supplies Needed before you pick up your bunny:
- Enclosure
- High quality Hay and Pellets
- Water Bottle/Dish
- Food Dish
- Hay Rack
- Bedding
- Nail Trimmers and a Brush
- Toys
- Litter Box and litter
- Carrier
- Although a Holland Lop has a sweet and gentle temperament, they don’t really like to be carried. He is way happier on your lap or when you interact with him on his level. On that note, a bunny may not be the best pet for a young child. Also, consider if you have an aggressive dog or cat around. You may not be able to keep them in the same area together.
If you are ok with the fact that bunnies poo alot, are not low-maintenance, can be expensive, like to chew on - well - anything and will steal your heart, then absolutely consider adopting one. They are so very worth it!!!